What does the R wave in an EKG indicate?

The R wave in an EKG represents ventricular depolarization, which is a critical phase in the cardiac cycle. During this phase, the electrical signals travel through the ventricles, leading to their contraction and the subsequent pumping of blood out of the heart to the lungs and the rest of the body. The R wave is the tallest and most prominent part of the QRS complex on an EKG waveform, which comprises the Q wave, R wave, and S wave.

Understanding the significance of the R wave is crucial for interpreting EKGs, as it provides essential information about the heart's electrical activity and overall function. Recognizing that the depolarization of the ventricles is what enables effective blood circulation underscores the diagnostic value of the R wave in identifying various cardiac conditions, such as arrhythmias or myocardial ischemia.